The Ghana Nigeria Business Council (GNBC) has relaunched its membership drive to push for bilateral trade expansion and business growth between the two countries.
The trade council has hinted of its preparedness to help members reposition themselves and expand their businesses to take advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) coming into play in January 2021.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Trade and Industry at the relaunch event, Dr. John Hawkins Asiedu applauded the trade council for repositioning itself for the membership drive, indicating that it is a step in the right direction to ensure Ghana and Nigeria build synergy to take a lead position when the AfCFTA takes off.
“Business must always go on, the business objective is to make money. For businesses, we have seen trade between the two countries grow exponentially over the years and we look forward to seeing the number soar in coming years,” he said.
Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) representative, Ashong-Lartey, on behalf of his organisation said the GIPC is fully onboard to support GNBC at any time with its activities to ensure the vision they have for the two countries s to fruition.
“As the two strong-boys within the region, I believe that we should work closely together to improve our game. Of course, in any relationship there will be differences; but I believe the differences will provide us with opportunity to improve upon our legal framework to govern business in the sub-region,” he said.
Chairman of GNBC, Reginald Laryea, commended the government of Ghana and its Nigerian counterpart for forging unity among them. He further encouraged businesses to take advantage of business opportunities which are present between the two countries. He also petitioned government to support activities of the GNBC to ensure that the full impact and benefits of the council are felt.
Executive Secretary of GNBC, Nadia Takyiwaa-Mensah, informed attendees about the membership packages available and mentioned key activities – including conferences, trade events, business-to-business meetings, networking events among others – that will be organised in the coming months, encouraging attendees to sign up for membership so they can take advantage of the full benefits available from their organisation.
GNBC has been in existence for the past five years and continues to dialogue with strategic partners to ensure Nigerian and Ghanaian businesses alike are best-positioned to take advantage of services offered by the Council. The Ghana Nigeria Business Council provides consulting services for Nigerian businesses in Ghana while also promoting trade for Ghanaians with partner agencies.
